Ripple effects from Japan’s disastrous earthquake and tsunami continue to be felt across the automotive landscape, with Subaru confirming the 2012 Impreza compact sedan will be delayed.

Subaru had not previously announced a launch date for what it touts as the most fuel efficient AWD vehicle on the market, and the delay isn’t a major one. “Yes there has been a delay,” confirmed Subaru product communications boss Dominick Infante to AutoGuide, “but Impreza production will begin in September.” The on-sale date for the Impreza will not be pushed back beyond the current year, says Infante. “Cars will be in dealerships in November.”

This setback will hamper Subaru’s incredible sales climb over the past three years and could hurt growth in the second half of 2011. Having just announced its first half numbers, Subaru of America saw an 8.4 percent sales decline in June; something CEO Tom Doll blamed on limited supply of vehicles. Year-to-date, Subaru of America sales have been strong enough to swallow the poor June numbers, returning a 4.8 percent growth rate.

Having debuted at the New York Auto Show this past Spring, the 2012 Impreza promises a 27/36-mpg rating, thanks to a 148-hp 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder and standard AWD.